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The dungeons were damp and dark. Exactly what Duke Aegir deserved.

If Hubert had his way, Duke Aegir would have been dead long ago. But his Lady had forbade it. Inevitably, Aegir would be considered a martyr. Murdered by bloodthirsty Emperor Edelgard. The past nine years had been stable for much of Adrestia. And there were many concerned with Edelgard’s rule thus far. Assassinating the former Prime Minister would only serve to anger the masses who had appreciated the stability under his rule.

There was also Ferdinand.

Hubert had planned to murder Ferdinand before Edelgard had declared war. Take him off the board before he could stand against them. But he hadn’t. He had joined them instead.

Ferdinand was now one of their highest ranking Generals. Tasked with leading the assault on the Leicester Alliance. Edelgard trusted him so. And so far Ferdinand had not failed them.

But Ferdinand had his limits. Hubert was well aware. He would not remain allied with them if his Father was murdered in cold blood. No. Duke Aegir would have a trial. Even now, prosecutors were gathering evidence to charge him for his crimes.

Hubert had charged himself with the responsibility of interacting with Ludwig von Aegir. So far the Duke had not revealed anything to Hubert, and it wasn’t like he could torture him. Instead he had to merely speak to the Duke and hope that he would crack. He had to.

“Vestra’s boy again.” Ludwig greeted Hubert when he spotted him through the cell bars.

“Marquis Vestra now. We both know what happened to my father.”

“Making light of patricide now are we? But what could one expect, given how House Vestra has never once operated in the light. I do wonder when the same fate might befall me, but so far you have proven yourself a coward.” Aegir sneered.

Duke Aegir was still portly and rotund, even on a prison diet for several months. The only resemblance he bore with Ferdinand was the hair and eye color.

“Begging me to kill you now? I had quite thought you would be instead begging for your life and freedom by now.” Hubert remarked.

Ludwig huffed and looked away. “I know better. But if you are willing to listen to a request, I have one.”

“Why of course. Complaints about the lodging I presume?” Hubert asked.

“It’s Ferdinand. I believe he joined the army and is serving in the Alliance Territory currently, right?” Ludwig asked.

Ferdinand had come up in conversation before now. But Hubert had not revealed any part of Ferdinand’s whereabouts to Ludwig. Had forbidden his spies from sharing any information regarding Ferdinand. To have him know not only Ferdinand’s location, but that he was serving in her Majesty’s army was a massive oversight, and something someone would die for.

Hubert stepped up to the jail bars and allowed the beginning of a miasma spell to gather in his hand. “Tell me how you came across that information right now or I will kill you where you sit.”

Ludwig only huffed. “Stand down. Arundel told me. He came to see me several days ago.”

Hubert grit his teeth. Arundel was another that he desperately wanted to remove. But his Lady forbid it. Especially after their Professor disappeared. They needed Arundel and power his mages had.

Hubert allowed the spell to dissipate. “You will not be permitted to see Ferdinand again. You will face your crimes and treason alone. With no one at your side.”

Ludwig didn’t respond to Hubert’s threat. “Arundel wants Ferdinand. Has wanted blood samples from him, and to make him a part of his experiments. As you know, Ferdinand inherited our family’s crest, the minor crest of Cichol. Arundel wants it.”

Ludwig looked up at Hubert then. “I know you would sooner see me dead, but my son is a different matter. As you have no doubt seen in your investigation, Ferdinand had nothing to do with any of my activities as Prime Minister. I was able to keep him safe while I was still in power but can no longer. And if Arundel has his way, Ferdinand will surely be killed.”

“You traded the lives of others for Ferdinand’s you mean.”

“Vestra. We both know that Ferdinand wouldn’t have been strong enough to withstand whatever those people would do to him. He isn’t as strong as the Princess. I made a choice to protect my son.”

Aegir took a moment to think of his next words. “I will be willing to cooperate with the investigation into my misdeeds, but only if you and your Emperor could guarantee my son’s safety. And only if you keep him away from that man.”

Hubert clenched his fists. This was the most serious offer Ludwig had made them. Arundel must have issued a serious threat to Ferdinand while visiting.

Would Edelgard accept this bargain? Would she accept any bargain from this man who was indirectly responsible for the deaths of all her siblings? Would she care to protect Ferdinand from that same fate?

Hubert himself had grown… fond of the other man. He had been such an annoying pest back at the academy. But beneath that annoying exterior was someone who was always striving to be better. At the academy, he had been always striving to better himself, striving to prove he was superior to Edelgard.

But now, properly guided into the war effort, Ferdinand’s relentless drive was pushing them farther and farther into Leicester territory.

And that wasn’t all. His casualty count was the lowest in the entire army. Death count was the same. Fewer people died under his command and his men seemed to actually care for him, unlike some of the other grizzled noble commanders.

To lose him would set them back dramatically. Hubert could see it clearly.

If Edelgard didn’t accept the deal, then Hubert would have to take over protecting Ferdinand on his own. He had a few spies he could spare. They could be reassigned to Ferdinand’s personal guard. Not that Ferdinand would ever know, or even be able to tell.

Ludwig was still talking. “I was so happy when he was born with the crest. Many had believed my grandfather was going to be the last holder of it, after I was born without it. But to think… That very crest now endangers his life. I never could have predicted it.”

Hubert had briefly considered if Ludwig had done something to Ferdinand to make a crest, which had been absent from his family for two generations appear, like what had happened to Lady Edelgard when she was taken from him. But given Ferdinand’s hair color, it appeared that the crest had simply reappeared on its own.

Crests were too much trouble. Lady Edelgard was right to rail against them.

“Well it appears that I will have something to report to her Majesty.” Hubert remarked. “I thank you, Duke Aegir. We have much to consider.”

Once Hubert had returned to his office he summoned his spies. He wanted to know where Arundel was, and how the war generals were faring.

General Bergliez was still focused on making a name for his sons instead of the actual war effort. General Hevring was forcing Linhardt to take an actual interest in the war. General Gert was status normal. And General Aegir…

“Reports indicate that General Aegir has been sneaking away from camp on free days with the mercenary Shamir. Returning several hours later with wounds that he does not seek medical attention for. Sir.” The spy read from the report.

Now that was concerning. Whatever could Ferdinand be doing?

Hubert would deliver his report to Lady Edelgard. And then he would investigate himself. It would not do for Ferdinand to betray them at this junction. If there was a way to dissuade him from whatever he was doing, Hubert would do it.

Or if Arundel had already gotten to him then Hubert really needed to investigate.

~

Slowly, ever so slowly, Ferdinand’s regiment was cutting away at Alliance territory. Ferdinand would prefer to have finally taken the Great Bridge of Myrddin by now, seven months into his campaign. But at least they were still making progress and had kept casualties to a minimum. His men certainly seemed to appreciate that fact. But Ferdinand knew that Edelgard would grow impatient with his slow progress.

He hadn’t expected Gloucester territory to be so heavily fortified. Especially given the distrust Lorenz had for Claude when they were classmates, the amount of reinforcements that House Riegan had provided House Gloucester was proving problematic for their assault on Leicester.

And while progress had been slow for the Empire, use of supplies had not been.

Ferdinand’s tent had a dedicated space to broken lances, axes and swords that his battalion had broken. Ferdinand himself had taken to using steel lances only, in order to ration the few silver lances left.

Several weeks into the war Ferdinand had noticed a distinct problem with his command.

The other war general’s were the great nobles of the Empire, and they were expected to privately finance their batallions and much of their regiments. Ferdinand was no exception to this rule, as the heir to house Aegir.

The only problem was that Aegir territory and Aegir funds had all been surrendered to the Empire upon his Father’s arrest. Ferdinand was now penniless and no longer truly a noble, although he maintained his noble heart. And his noble dedication to Fodlan.

But the reality was, Ferdinand had no funds to purchase supplies for his men, and no funds to repair their weapons as they broke. He had been able to repair a few weapons himself, after flirting with the local blacksmith that had moved into their camp, but she had quickly caught on to what Ferdinand was doing, and asked that he pay to use her smith.

Ferdinand knew that Edelgard was waiting for him to say something. But he refused. Clearly, she had to know about the financial situation on the Leicester front, and she expected Ferdinand to rise to the occasion.

And so he did.

He had remembered back at the Academy, when their class ran low on funds Professor Byleth had taken mercenary jobs. Ferdinand had sharpened his lance skills on many such jobs, and now that he was a commander himself he turned to the same profession. He hoped that if he ever reunited with his professor, that they would be proud of his ingenuity.

That was why every free moment that he had, he and Shamir took a mercenary job from the local populace, and they split the proceeds. Ferdinand didn’t know what Shamir was doing with her half, but his half was spent purchasing supplies and repairing weapons for his men and women.

And all he had to do was face local bandits head on, while Shamir attacked from the shadows. It was actually quite helpful for Ferdinand’s skills, bandits fought dirty and made him adjust his own tactics. And Ferdinand couldn’t help but think that Claude would fight the same way once his men and women finally broke into Leicester territory.

The injuries he sustained just reminded him why he was doing this. To free Fodlan from the tyranny of the church. And the tyranny of crests.

Although his own crest was likely responsible for his survival up to this point. Were it not for his ability to stop enemy counter attacks, he would have been slain several times over. Fighting through an actual war, with his crest, had deftly shown him why there were so many stories of Aegir Prime Ministers securing military victories. A great many of those victories must be attributed to the crest of Cichol.

“Good work today kid.” Shamir told him as she handed him his share of the gold they had earned.

“Thank you. Good work youself!” Ferdinand congratulated as he pocketed the gold. Already knowing how much he would need for supplies, and calculating how much he could spend on repairing weapons.

“I do wonder, why don’t you ever bring your horse with us when we do this?” Shamir asked.

“She could be hurt. Bandits fight dirty, and I wouldn’t be surprised if one produced a rapier and used it against my Peony.” Ferdinand answered. “It’s better for me to face them on foot.”

“Have you thought about what you’re going to do when you face the hero of Daphnel? Shes famous for her rapier.” Shamir asked.

Ferdinand felt pride swirl in his chest. The fact that Shamir thought he was capable of not only breaking through the Gloucester defenses, but also capable of reaching the Hero of Daphnel was quite reassuring. “I will leave Peony behind whenever I face her. It would be better for her to use her rapier on me than my horse.”

“You know you’re quite funny for a noble. You’ll go out of your way to protect your horse, but wont have your own wounds treated after battle. I hate lecturing spoiled brats like you, but you really need to get medical treatment when you’re hurt.” Shamir signed.

Shamir was the only person from Garreg Mach in Ferdinand’s regiment. His former class mates were all scattered across the Empire, fighting on other fronts, or in Enbarr where Edelgard, Hubert, Dorothea, Bernadetta and Linhardt were. Shamir must feel a responsibility for Ferdinand since she had been a professor and he a student, and now they were commander and mercenary.

“I assure you, I receive prompt medical attention when it is warranted. Otherwise, I treat my wounds myself.” Ferdinand promised. “Medical supplies are so precious, I don’t like to waste them on a few arrow and axe wounds.”

“Are our supplies running low?” Shamir asked.

“Not at the moment. But with the war in Faerghus heating up, I fear that supplies will be hard to procure over the next few weeks.” Ferdinand admitted. “I have my own supply of medicine and bandages and can see to my own wounds easily.”

“Well at least you are treating them, even if its on your own.” Shamir sighed. “But you don’t need to be a hero. If you really get hurt, see the medics. They worry about you.”

Ferdinand blinked. “Shamir.” He smiled. “I had no idea you cared so much. It warms my heart! But I assure you that I am doing just fine. Why that last battle I suffered nary a scratch.”

“Your ability to avoid attacks has gotten better as we’ve taken out the local bandits.” Shamir nodded. “Good job on that. You never know when that will save your life.”

“Indeed.” Ferdinand admitted.

He and Shamir parted ways when they returned to camp and Ferdinand ducked into his own tent. He was tired after taking on the latest group of bandits, and had only gotten shot with an arrow that he needed to treat.

He startled and nearly screamed when he saw Hubert in his tent. “Hubert! When did you get here?” He cried out.

“Hello Ferdinand.” Hubert greeted. His smile was always unnerving, but even more so now that Ferdinand didn’t know why he was here.

He hadn’t heard anything from Edelgard in weeks. But surely Hubert was here to chastise him for making no progress into Gloucester. Ferdinand would give him a piece of his mind. It was easy for those that were sitting in Enbarr to judge the lack of progress, but they didn’t live day to day in the camp. Nor did they have to rely on Ferdinand’s mercenary work to eat.

“I heard some interesting reports about you, Ferdinand.” Hubert crossed his arms and examined him.

Ferdinand set his hands on his hips. “I’m sure you have. But I’m not sure how much more you expect me to do.”

“How much? I simply expect that you remain loyal to Her Majesty’s cause. Do I have any reason to doubt your loyalty, Ferdinand?” Hubert leaned in close as he asked.

“My loyalty? I’m not sure what my loyalty has to do with House Riegan heavily fortifying Gloucester. But I just need more time to fight through their defenses.” Ferdinand defended himself. “My men and women and I have been making steady progress. Riegan’s support for Gloucester isn’t unlimited. And once it ends, we will be in Leicester territory.”

“Indeed. It’s too bad that I’m not here to discuss your military strategy.”

“You are… not?” Ferdinand asked. “Then why are you here?”

“You have been leaving camp with Shamir and coming back injured. Your men and women don’t know what you’re doing with that mercenary, and neither do I.”

Ferdinand frowned. “Well, mercenary work of course. Shamir and I have been taking jobs from local merchants and routing bandits in the area.” He explained. “We split the proceeds, and the local villages don’t have to worry about bandits.”

“How noble.” Hubert sneered. “But I doubt her Majesty will be pleased when she finds out one of her top generals is using his free time to injure himself and endanger his troops.”

Ferdinand’s jaw dropped, even though it was not noble. “I beg your pardon?”

“You heard me. It is quite reckless to endanger yourself all for a bit of gold.”

“The gold which is needed to support my battalion.” Ferdinand corrected. He gestured to the pile of broken weapons taking up a large portion of his tent. “How else are these to be repaired?”

“They are to be repaired at the blacksmith. Same as the other weapons.”

Ferdinand crossed his arms petulantly, and then grimaced as he pulled the arrow wound in his shoulder. “Hubert, you do know that the generals are responsible for their battalions. The Quarter Master won’t repair any of my weapons or those of my battalion. It’s my responsibility, and I need gold in order to pay the blacksmith and to purchase smithing stones. I also need to purchase quite a bit of black sand steel given my battalions reliance on killer weapons.” Ferdinand explained.

“That is what your war stipend is for.” Hubert frowned at him. “You should have more than enough to pay for the cost of your equipment upkeep.”

Ferdinand sighed. “Hubert. Please, I do not know if you are being purposefully cruel or are truly that ignorant of war matters. None of the generals receive a stipend. It is each of our personal responsibilities to fund our own part of the war effort. And with the Aegir accounts ceded to the Empire, I have no funds to draw from.”

Hubert’s frown intensified. “You should be receiving a stipend.” Is all he said.

“I have no complaints in regard to funding my equipment and that of my battalion. Mercenary work with Shamir has been routine and mundane. Honestly, it reminds me of our time at the Officer’s Academy. I do not mind it Hubert. Now, does that satisfy your curiosity? I am not plotting against Edelgard. Quite the opposite.” Ferdinand continued.

“I will speak with the Quarter Master. You should have been receiving a stipend. I set it up myself.” Hubert said instead.

“It really is not necessary. War funds would be better spent elsewhere.” Ferdinand argued.

“Oh? So you can continue to get yourself hurt with Shamir, putting not only yourself but your entire regiment at risk because of an accounting error? No. You are finished with the mercenary work. Your sole focus needs to be on the war. The Imperial Household will see to your equipment needs from now on.” Hubert stated with finality.

“I have everything well under control.” Ferdinand argued. He didn’t even know why he was arguing. The thought of not having to go out with Shamir and fight endless bandits in exchange for gold sounded perfect. He could finally put his full focus on the war effort.

But another part of Ferdinand didn’t want to concede defeat. Hubert might say that it had all been an accounting error, but Ferdinand couldn’t shake the thought that this was some kind of punishment for his Father’s misdeeds, and a test of Ferdinand’s loyalty to the cause. And he didn’t like losing.

“For now. But how much longer? How long until one of the bandits gets a lucky axe hit and wounds you irreparably?” Hubert asked. “I would rather not find out. We need not waste one of our best Generals due to an accounting error and his own foolishness. I will speak with the Quarter Master. Do not do anything ridiculous while I am gone.”

Ferdinand sighed once Hubert was gone. Then he sat down and unbuttoned his cravat and loosened his shirt. He needed to treat the arrow wound in his shoulder. He had hastily pulled it out during the bout with the bandits, but only so that it would not hinder his lance attacks.

Once free from his clothing, he pressed a cloth to the wound. It was still bleeding quite heavily, but should be fine once he could bandage it properly. He pressed his chin into the cloth and used his freed hand to gather his medical supplies.

Ferdinand was washing the wound with soap and water when Hubert stormed back in. The man stopped once he spotted Ferdinand.

“What are you doing?” Hubert snarled.

“Tending to my wounds.” Ferdinand answered without looking up at Hubert. “It is just a minor one.”

Hubert was at his side in an instant. “Move your hand.” He ordered.

“I can tend to my own wound. The Professor taught me.”

“The Professor also taught me faith magic, which I will use to help you once you stop acting foolish.”

Ferdinand removed his hand from the wound. Blood continued to ooze forth, until Hubert reached his hand out and summoned a heal spell.

Ferdinand healed as he felt the faith magic wash over him. He had gotten so used to treating his own wounds that he had forgotten how warm faith magic was.

Hubert lowered his hand and their eyes met. The silence between them stretched.

At the Academy they had been at each other’s throats. Ferdinand had irritated Hubert incessantly with his desire to best Edelgard. And Hubert had irritated Ferdinand with both his blind loyalty to Edelgard, and his penchant to keep things from her. How could he call himself Edelgard’s vassal and do things behind her back, without her knowledge?

“I have made a mistake.” Hubert began. “It was not just House Aegir territory which reverted to the Imperial Household when your father was arrested. But all of Aegir property. Property which includes you.”

“Excuse me?” Ferdinand asked as he jerked his shirt closed. He also rose to his feet and glared at Hubert.

Hubert allowed himself a grin. “House Aegir, and you, have both fallen under my purview as Minister of the Imperial Household. You, in essence, became a member of the Imperial Household. And I have been remiss in not ensuring that you had everything you needed for the war effort. Such a mistake will not happen again.”

“Part of the Imperial Household? What are you saying Hubert?” Ferdinand asked.

“When House Aegir fell under my purview as Minister of the Imperial Household, you did as well. Therefore, it is my duty to ensure that you have the supplies you need for the war effort. I will make the proper arrangements shortly.”

“I have also informed Shamir that you will not be joining her on any more mercenary jobs. If she wants to work outside of the war effort, that is her prerogative. But you will be focusing on the assault on the Leicester Alliance from this point on. And you will see your regiment healers for any wounds you incur.” Hubert continued. “Have we reached an understanding?”

Ferdinand bristled. He had expected cruelty from Hubert. After all, the man was more likely to remove Ferdinand. This…kindness was unexpected. And not something Ferdinand was equipped to deal with.

“No. I do not understand.” Ferdinand looked away. “Why waste so many resources on me when I can handle myself just fine? And being part of the Imperial Household, what nonsense is that?”

Hubert smiled at him. “You expect her Majesty to be pleased that her best general is hurting himself over and over, all for some measly gold pieces. I may be a cruel man, but I do not serve a cruel Emperor. You will not needlessly suffer anymore.”

Ferdinand had nothing to say in response. Hubert was right. He had expected that Edelgard would be pleased that he was having to resort to such bloody means in order to keep fighting in her war. He had not considered that that would not be the case.

“I must return to Enbarr and address matters with the Emperor. But I will return shortly. Please try to refrain from being reckless with your wellbeing while I am away.” Hubert said before he walked towards the flap of Ferdinand’s tent.

“And Ferdinand? If Lord Arundel comes and requests a blood sample, please oblige.” Hubert added over his shoulder.

Ferdinand found his voice. “My blood? Whyever would he want that?”

“He is interested in studying crests. I am led to believe that yours is rare, with you being the only known holder.”

“Seteth has it as well.” Ferdinand added. “He has the Major Crest, while I have the Minor. Linhardt told me when we were at the Officer’s Academy.”

Hubert’s eyes flashed. “I see. I will inform him.” Then he exited.

Ferdinand watched him leave. And wondered what exactly had happened.

~

The next day Ferdinand was shocked awake when servants entered his tent and removed all of the broken weapons. All he was told was that by order of the Emperor, all of the broken weapons would be repaired. And at the end of the day, the armory was full of repaired weapons for his battalion.

The next surprise came later in the day when one of the healers approached him to check on his arrow wound. The very arrow wound that Hubert had treated the day before.

Both instances pointed to Hubert’s influence. Were it someone who was a friend, and truly cared for him, Ferdinand would have been pleased. But Hubert von Vestra hated Ferdinand. The only logical explanation was that Hubert was so displeased with Ferdinand’s conduct that he was taking over various tasks so that Ferdinand could ‘focus’ on the campaign.

The next surprising development was the arrival of Lord Arundel several days later. He arrived to their camp in secret and set up his retinue on the outskirts. Ferdinand would not have been aware of Arundel’s presence if he hadn’t overheard the servants complaining about having more mouths to feed and no extra supplies.

Ferdinand remembered that Hubert had said that Lord Arundel wanted a sample of his blood, but was surprised that he would travel so far for it. But when Ferdinand asked to see Lord Arundel the staff told him Arundel was away.

It was odd. But Ferdinand figured Arundel could find him himself if he truly wanted a blood sample. But he wondered why Arundel had come all the way out to the Airmid river. Surely he had duties to tend to in Enbarr.

The next surprising development came late in the evening. Ferdinand was on his way back to his tent after tending to Peony and completing lance training with his men and women, when Shamir approached.

“Aegir.” She said very quietly upon approach. “There is something we must discuss.”

Ferdinand blinked. This must have something to do with Hubert. Ferdinand would have words with him once they met again, for the man could not disrupt the chain of command in Ferdinand’s regiment without seeking prior approval.

Shamir led him away from the tents, and once they were sufficiently alone she spoke, still very quiet. “An Alliance representative is here. He said he wants to talk to you.”

Ferdinand’s eyes widened. This was unexpected. After months of whittling away at House Gloucester’s defenses, it had seemed like the Alliance would be congratulating themselves on a job well done. Why seek him out now?

He could hear the Professor’s voice in his head, chiding him that this must be a trap. But meeting this representative could also provide him with enough information to finally break through. He needed to meet them.

“Let us go meet them then.” Ferdinand agreed. “I will get one of my lances, make sure you bring your bow in case this is an ambush.”

“It isn’t. I checked.” Shamir said with a cocky little smile. “I’ve got to look out for our little leader.”

Ferdinand felt his cheeks heat. “Well! I still must have a weapon. If only for peace of mind.”

Shamir nodded. Once Ferdinand had one of his trusty killer lances in hand, he followed Shamir into the dark forest near their camp. Once they had gone far enough away from the camp that the sounds of woods surrounded them, they met their contact.

Ferdinand gasped as he came upon Lorenz, his closest friend when he had been in the monastery.

“Lorenz!” He said. “What are you doing here?”

“My dear Ferdinand.” Lorenz smiled. “It has been too long since we have seen each other. You must forgive me, I have not brought anything to our meeting.”

“Please get to the point.” Shamir curtly directed Lorenz.

“Very well. Ferdinand, things in the Alliance are not well. Until very recently, our House was able to hold back your forces through the combined efforts of Houses Riegan, Ordelia, and Acheron’s supplying us with constant reinforcements. As of today though, Houses Ordelia and Acheron’s have refused to provide any reinforcements.”

Ferdinand’s eyes widened. He hadn’t known that it had been three noble households bolstering Gloucester. But it made sense. House Riegan was powerful, but not powerful enough to hold back the full might of the Imperial Army. Without two sources of supplies and men and women to fight, House Gloucester would be doomed, with or without the help of House Riegan.

“Lorenz… Why come here to tell me this? We have been enemies for the last several months. To provide me with this information is surely a betrayal to your house.”

“My Father would like to speak with you. We have several concerns and once I told him that a true noble like yourself was leading the Imperial troops, and not some brute like the Death Knight, he asked if I could bring you to him for a meeting.”

Shamir shot him a look. She didn’t like this. But this could give the Empire the foothold they need to enter Alliance territory.

“Take me to him.” Ferdinand told Lorenz.

~

Count Gloucester looked just like Lorenz. Or more accurately, Lorenz was the spitting image of his father. Both with purple hair and eyes, and both looking like they had not slept in days.

“Ferdinand von Aegir. Well met.” Count Gloucester greeted him. Lorenz had snuck Ferdinand into Glouceser manse in secret, and brought him through several winding passageways into what was presumably the Count’s study. “I have heard much of you from my son, Lorenz.”

“Indeed. And I have heard much of you, your grace.” Ferdinand greeted. “I am humbled to finally meet you.”

“A flatterer. Much like your father. But speaking earnestly, the Empire needs men like you in leadership. With the Emperor declaring war on the entire continent, and allowing men like the Death Knight and Count Bergliez to run free, it would do her well to employ more noble men like yourself.” Count Gloucester remarked.

“But enough of that. I have brought you here to speak with you. When our conversation is finished I will allow Lorenz to take you back to your men and women, and tomorrow we will continue fighting as normal. If our conversation is not sufficient for my needs.” Count Gloucester promised.

“I appreciate that. You are a true noble, to allow me to speak with you privately like this, and not take me hostage and ransom me back to the Empire.” Ferdinand remarked.

Count Gloucester laughed. “And antagonize the Empire further? That would be quite a foolish move. No, I have brought you here to discuss House Gloucester’s conditional support of the Empire.”

Ferdinand’s heart skipped beat. Could this truly be happening? It would be a true boon if he could convince House Gloucester to join the Empire and allow their troops to move into Alliance territory. And if Ferdinand could convince them with minimal bloodshed? He would be a hero.

“Please continue.” Ferdinand asked.

“Two of the three noble households that have been supporting us thus far have withdrawn their support. They have not formally joined the Empire, but they have signalled that they will not be assisting House Gloucester with our defense of the Great Bridge of Myrddin. That leaves us with only the support of House Riegan, which will not be enough to protect the bridge.” Count Gloucester explained.

“Furthermore. My spies have recently learned that Lord Acheron, a minor noble who holds territory to the north of the bridge, intends to march on my lands in the midst of your assault on the bridge.”

Ferdinand felt his brows furrow. “To turn on you in the midst of le… That is truly deplorable.”

“We are in agreement.” Count Gloucester continued. “That is why I will be willing to allow your troops into Gloucester territory and to the bridge. But only if you meet my terms of negotiation.”

Ferdinand’s heart was still beating rapidly. This was a watershed moment. A moment when he could truly prove himself worthy. Worthy of being a General. Worthy of being at Edelgard’s side. Worthy of her trust unlike her father.

Ferdinand knew instantly. Faced with this decision, his father would promise Count Gloucester whatever he wanted in order to get what he wanted. Even if it were not something that his father could promise.

Ferdinand would not do that.

“Count Gloucester.” Ferdinand interrupted. “I appreciate you bringing me here, and laying the situation bare. But in terms of concessions, I am afraid there is nothing I can offer. I hold no political power in the current Empire and can not offer you protection, or an esteemed place in Her Majesty’s Cabinet. I am simply a soldier.”

Ferdinand looked up into Count Gloucester’s eyes then. “I can only promise this: if you allow my troops into your territory, and allow us to take the Bridge of Myrddin, I will not allow my troops to seize crop yields from your territory, nor will I allow any civilians to be harmed. All supplies we need, will be purchased at fair market rates. We will also do our best to keep property damage to a minimum, although you must be aware that with siege weapons sometimes property damage can not be avoided. This is all that I can offer you.”

Count Gloucester’s face softened. “You are a good man, Ferdinand von Aegir. I knew your House had been deposed, and that you had no real power in the Emperor’s government. But you do have full command of your troops. Your offer is all that I need from you at the moment. More complex negotiations I can address with the Emperor and and whoever she selects as a Prime Minister at a later date. But for now, all I needed was your promise that the people of Gloucester will not suffer should we allow your advance.”

Ferdinand’s eyes widened. “You accept?”

Count Gloucester nodded. “I accept. Considering the damage that Imperial Generals have done to the Western Kingdom lands, I cannot allow such destruction of my territory. And you are someone I can trust to safeguard the common man. Now, let us discuss the finer details of your march.”

Early the next morning, Ferdinand arrived back at his camp. A feeling of elation settled in his chest.

He had done it. He had secured a deal with House Gloucester.

In a weeks time, his men and women would march on the Great Bridge of Myrddin, once there, they would join with the Gloucester forces against the Riegan forces. Further, if Acheron did turn on Gloucester, Imperial forces would take out Acheron’s forces.

It was set to be a complicated battle. With the Imperial forces joining with one faction of the Alliance, against two other rival factions. Ferdinand wished Professor Byleth were here to help him.

But he did have one more boon. Lorenz had accompanied him back to the camp, and would be joining the battle at Ferdinand’s side in a weeks time. Ferdinand was so excited when he arrived back at the camp that he couldn’t rest.

Instead he sat down and began furiously writing a report to Edelgard.

Edelgard,

I have recently met with Count Gloucester. Due to internal Alliance politics he will be unable to withstand the Imperial advance. Instead of facing defeat in battle, he offered to allow Imperial troops to march on the bridge and join his forces in battle against two opposing Alliance factions. And all Count Gloucester asked for in return was my promise that my men and women would not seize crop yields or harm any civilians in his territory. Apparently the advance into the Kingdom has not been so kind to the common folk.

I told Count Gloucester that I have no political sway in the new Empire, and he understood. Although I must ask you, as a former classmate, to please be receptive to Count Gloucester as he formally joins Imperial ranks. Without his support we would not be making any progress into Alliance territory.

I hope all is well in Enbarr and that our fellow classmates are safe.

Your General,

Ferdinand von Aegir

Ferdinand could not stop grinning as he gave his missive to the messenger.

It took several rounds of meetings with his commanders, but once everyone was informed of the plan, morale in the camp boosted significantly. This could be their break through moment into the Alliance lands. And his men and women were ready.

“I have written to the Emperor.” Ferdinand told Lorenz later when the two reconnected in Ferdinand’s tent. “I asked that she be receptive to your House joining Imperial ranks.”

Lorenz’s eyes softened. “You are a true noble Ferdinand. To be willing to trust us, after so long. I am in awe of you.”

“Were it another Alliance House, without you, I may not be so willing to trust. But I know you Lorenz, I trust you. And with the two of us working together we can do anything.” Ferdinand smiled. “Why in just a few days, we will bring stability to your region, and hopefully punish that minor Lord Acheron.”

“We shall triumph. And the two of us shall protect not only the people of Gloucester, but all the people of Fodlan.” Lorenz promised as he clapped a hand on Ferdinand’s shoulder. “I am so happy to be reunited, my friend. Together there is nothing we cannot accomplish.”

~

Two days later Hubert arrived at their camp with a large shipment of supplies and weapons, as well as reinforcements. The Emperor’s blessing to Ferdinand’s plan.

Ferdinand watched as the camp filled with excited soldiers. Many of the reinforcements had been reassigned from the Western campaign into the Kingdom. And those soldiers had a hard time hiding their pleasure at being under Ferdinand von Aegir’s command and no longer with the Death Knight.

Ferdinand felt his heart warm, but knew that he couldn’t let such sentiments get to his head. In his younger years he would have been ecstatic that anyone liked him. But he knew better now. Surely the men would grow just as disappointed in him as they were the Death Knight. It was war after all. And Ferdinand knew that he was not special, he had just gotten lucky with Count Gloucester.

“It is quite a different scene around your camp compared to the last time I was here.” Hubert’s voice shocked Ferdinand as he was reading over reports in his tent.

“Hubert! Must you still sneak up on me?” Ferdinand asked.

“Apologies. And congratulations, convincing Count Gloucester to join our side is exactly what our forces needed.” Hubert actually complimented him.

“I thought we agreed to give compliments in writing.” Ferdinand mumbled as he felt his cheeks heat furiously.

“I figured compliments on your strategy were exempt. And based on your response, such praise is not something you have heard so let me be frank; everyone in Enbarr is pleased with this latest development.” Hubert actually smiled at him. “The Emperor in particular. She is quite pleased that you were able to broker a deal with Count Gloucester.”

“Ah. That is fantastic news Hubert.” Ferdinand smiled. “I will ensure that we do not let her down.”

“In recognition of your efforts, I have brought reinforcements and supplies. Although we had planned to give you more in the ways of forces and supplies before you swayed Gloucester to our side.” Hubert admitted. “Further, I have something else for you. From our esteemed Emperor. Allow me just a moment.”

With that Hubert exited the tent. Ferdinand wondered what else Edelgard had sent.

When Ferdinand saw what Hubert had in hand he gasped audibly.

In Hubert’s hand was the Spear of Assal. The Spear that Professor Byleth had entrusted to him back in the monastery. And that Ferdinand had given to Edelgard in Byleth’s absence. Wanting the Emperor to make best use of the Spear.

In Hubert’s hand though, the Spear appeared as a normal blessed lance. Silver, and life less. It had looked the same when Byleth held it.

The Church had entrusted their class with the Spear when they chased bandits away from a monument to Saint Cichol. And with only one member of their class specializing in lances, Professor Byleth had asked Ferdinand to use the lance.

Ferdinand was frozen as he stared at the Spear now. He had missed it terribly. Almost as much as he missed the Professor. To have it back now… He felt his heart do somersaults.

“Well? Won’t you take it?” Hubert asked as he held out the Spear.

Ferdinand reached his right hand out, and the moment his fingers made contact with the spear, the tip lit up in the familiar brilliant blue glimmering patterns. Ferdinand laughed as he watched the patterns move about the tip of the Spear.

He remembered back at the monastery, how shocked everyone had been when he had taken the Spear in hand and it had lit up in such a way. It hadn’t done so for any of his classmates, and it wasn’t until later that Seteth had explained that the Spear only lit up like that when someone with the crest of Cichol wielded it. As it had been St. Cichol’s weapon when he had fought the Fell King Nemesis.

“I never get tired of seeing you wield this lance.” Hubert admitted quietly. “The Lords were bickering for so long about it and couldn’t reach a consensus. Half wanted you to have the Spear, and the other half wanted to give it to Lord Bergliez for some asinine reason. It wasn’t until we brought Lord Bergliez back to Enbarr to explain to the other lords that he doesn’t have the skill in lances to wield this Spear that they finally acquiesced and allowed Edelgard to give it back to you.” Hubert explained.

“I thought you had given it to the Death Knight.” Ferdinand admitted.

“Why would we give him your spear?” Hubert asked incredulously.

Ferdinand unfortunately felt wetness at his eyes as he stared at the Spear of Assal. To be reunited at long last. And to have the holy relic with him as he made his advance into Alliance territory was truly astounding. He could not be happier.

“And though I loathe crests as much as my Lady, I do admit that I derive some satisfaction when I see you wield what is, in essence, an hero’s relic of Adrestia.” Hubert admitted.

“I cannot thank Edelgard enough for returning this to me.” Ferdinand said quietly as he pressed the spear handle to his chest. Warming himself with its presence. “This weapon was entrusted to me by the Professor. To have it once more, I can almost feel the Professor’s presence.”

Hubert said nothing but continued to observe him.

Unfortunately, the wetness persisted and Ferdinand felt a tear escape his eye. Hubert must think him pathetic. To get choked up at simply receiving a holy weapon. But in actuality, it was all of it.

Lorenz, returning to his side. The reinforcements from Edelgard, Count Gloucester joining them, and of course the return of the Spear of Assal. He had been alone for so long… Ever since they had lost the Professor. And had forgotten that he did have comrades who cared for him.

He jolted as he felt Hubert touch his face. But all Hubert did was use his gloved thumb to wipe away his tear. It was actually quite a delicate touch for one that thrived on violence.

“You will not needlessly suffer again.” Hubert said quietly. “You sided with us. You are ours, to support and protect. You will not be alone again.”

Ferdinand let out a wet chuckle. “You must think me pathetic. To get so worked up over a spear.”

Hubert’s eyes softened. “I do not.” Hubert admitted. He retracted his hand. “I am glad to see you back with it. You were quite fearsome during our assault on Garreg Mach with that Spear. And you will need all your strength in the upcoming battle.”

“I will.” Ferdinand admitted. “But you can inform Edelgard that with the Spear of Assal our victory is all but assured. When you return to Enbarr of course.”

“You will have to write to Lady Edelgard to let her know.” Hubert said. “As I will be staying here to join your forces.”

“Joining us?” Ferdinand asked. “Doesn’t Edelgard need you in Enbarr with her?”

“I will be able to fulfill my duties from here. The Emperor has decided to make sure that all of our former classmates have another former classmate posted with them. Both to boost morale, and to support one another. Linhardt has been reassigned to Fort Merceus with Caspar, Bernadetta has been reassigned to the Western front with Petra, Dorothea is in Enbarr with Lady Edelgard, and I will be assigned here with you.”

“It is a posting that I believe I will bring much value. As I can ensure you do not take reckless risks with your own life.” Hubert continued. “Furthermore, while I am pleased you were able to sway Count Gloucester to join us, I am concerned that you went into enemy territory to meet one of the most dangerous men in Fodlan with only Shamir as backup. In the future I will be accompanying you when take such dangerous risks.”

“Count Gloucester could not risk angering the Empire.” Ferdinand pointed out. “To kill me would have brought on a retaliation which he did not want to face.”

Hubert just crossed his arms. “All the same. If any other Alliance lords invite you to their mansion in the dead of night, I will be accompanying you.”

“That is fine.” Ferdinand admitted. “But I still cannot believe that Edelgard can spare you for so long.”

“We decided that my presence was better served… Elsewhere.” Hubert said, emphasizing that last word. So either Edelgard wanted some free time away from Hubert, or she wanted Hubert here with Ferdinand.

He wasn’t sure which one was true. But having such a talented mage among their ranks would be quite beneficial for the next battle.

If only Hubert had a crest. Then he could share Thyrsus with Lorenz and increase his magic range. But without it, Ferdinand would have to insist that Hubert stay on the back lines so that he can support the troops from a safe distance.

~

Several days later, Ferdinand’s men and women began their march toward the Great Bridge of Myrddin.

Hubert had not been happy when he was told to stay away from the front lines. But he acquiesced when he learned that Lorenz would be sticking close to Ferdinand’s side. With Thyrsus it would be hard for Ferdinand to ride out of Lorenz’s magic range.

Ferdinand’s regiment had noticed that he now wielded the Spear of Assal. While not many knew it was the very weapon that St. Cichol had wielded over a thousand years ago, they did notice that Ferdinand now possessed a powerful weapon on par with some of the Heroe’s Relics. And that the Emperor had entrusted it to him.

Before long, his men and women were at the edge of the Bridge. Ferdinand rode up to the front lines and turned to face everyone.

“Everyone! Today we have the ability to gain a valued foothold into the Alliance Territories for the Empire. Our victory must be absolute.” He looked to Lorenz. “This would not have been possible were it not for our allies in House Gloucester, who will be joining us on the battlefield today. So please, fight your hardest but also protect each other, for we fight not just for the Empire, but for all of Fodlan.”

At the end of his speech he hefted the Spear of Assal into the air, the same way he had seen Edelgard raise Aymr when she was making speeches. As expected, his men and women erupted into cheers.

With that his soldiers thundered onto the bridge. Ferdinand prioritized cutting down enemy cavalry with the Spear of Assal, as one blow from the lance was enough to fell them. From behind him he heard Lorenz firing off sagittate and fire spells at enemy wyverns as they approached Ferdinand.

With the help of the Aegir Astral Knights, eventually Ferdinand was able to cut his way to where Acheron was.

The Riegan forces had retreated by that point, but Acheron was still foolishly challenging both the Imperial Forces and House Gloucester.

Once Ferdinand had reached him though, Acheron summoned a line of armor knights that Ferdinand was going to have to cut through. Ferdinand gritted his teeth. Back at the academy he had relied on the Professor and Dorothea to help him cut through armor knights. But neither were here.

He readied the Spear of Assal. Sure that it could do some damage to the heavily armored units.

However, one of the armored knights was cut down instantly by Lorenz’s sagittae. And another dissipated in a cloud of miasma. Ferdinand looked over his right shoulder and saw that Hubert had approached. “Go!” He called out to Ferdinand and pointed at Acheron.

Ferdinand nodded, readied the Spear and charged.

“Wait! But I thought we were on the same side!” Acheron cried as Ferdinand and Peony charged.

“You’ve turned your back on the Empire AND House Gloucester!” Ferdinand yelled as he thrust the Spear of Assal into Acheron and his horse.

Like the other paladins he had cut down, Acheron went down in one blow.

“We’ve done it!” Ferdinand called out as he rode out from behind the fortress where Acheron was hiding. “We have taken the bridge and gained access to the Alliance!”

Cheers erupted from his men and women. Ferdinand raised the Spear of Assal into the air, even as it was covered by blood and bits of the horses and men he had cut down. His troops remained un-swayed and cheered alongside him.

“You have truly done it my friend. I can not thank you enough for keeping your promise and protecting us from Acheron.” Lorenz said as he rode up beside Ferdinand.

“I couldn’t have done it without you.” Ferdinand admitted quietly. “My friend. I thank you.” He reached his free hand out and Lorenz took it.

“Oh my, am I interrupting something?” Ferdinand turned and found Hubert on his other side.

Ferdinand took his hand back. “Merely thanking Lorenz. We couldn’t have taken the bridge if not for him.”

“While Gloucester certainly helped us with the use of his relic, I can’t help but point out that it was his father who helped us the most on this day.” Hubert sneered at Lorenz.

Lorenz frowned. “I will be sure to let my father know you think so highly of him Vestra.”

“Gentleman, this is a time for celebration. Not bickering with one another.” Ferdinand cut in between them. For some reason Hubert showed so much disdain towards Lorenz. It didn’t make any sense. Lorenz was a powerful ally. He was an influential part of the Leicester Alliance and had a powerful relic.

“Hubert.” Ferdinand said, and when he had Hubert’s attention he continued. “When you return to Enbarr, please tell Edelgard how much we appreciated the support of Lorenz and House Gloucester.”

Hubert raised an eyebrow. “As I have told you before, you will have to write to her yourself. I am staying in your army until we conquer Derdriu.”

Ferdinand blinked. “I had not thought you were staying with us for so long. Surely you have duties back in Enbarr.” He argued.

“Dorothea is handling my affairs as Minister of the Imperial Household. And I can continue my spy work from your side in the Alliance. No, I will be staying with your campaign until the ultimate conclusion.”

“Oh Sothis help me.” Lorenz complained. “He isn’t leaving?” He asked Ferdinand quietly.

“Oh no. I am afraid I will be staying with Ferdinand for the foreseeable future.” Hubert’s grin was downright ominous as he smiled at Lorenz.

Ferdinand stared at Hubert. He couldn't figure him out. When they had been at the Academy Hubert could not stand him. But now he seemed pleased to be fighting alongside Ferdinand. And Ferdinand for whatever reason, was happy that Hubert was going to be staying with them.